Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies for HIV Prevention and Treatment: Advances and Challenges

Nyakairu Doreen G.

 

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Human immunodeficiency virus continued to present a formidable global health challenge despite advances in antiretroviral therapy. Broadly neutralizing antibodies represent a unique class of immunoglobulins capable of recognizing conserved epitopes across diverse HIV strains, offering potential for both prevention and therapeutic intervention. These antibodies target critical viral envelope structures including the CD4 binding site, membrane proximal external region, V1V2 apex, and V3 glycan supersite, achieving viral neutralization through interference with host cell entry mechanisms. This review aimed to critically evaluate the biochemical properties, mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and translational challenges associated with broadly neutralizing antibodies in HIV prevention and treatment applications. A comprehensive synthesis of peer reviewed literature examining broadly neutralizing antibody discovery, structural biology, preclinical studies, clinical trials, and implementation barriers was conducted. Broadly neutralizing antibodies demonstrated potent in vitro neutralization of diverse HIV isolates and provide protection against viral acquisition in animal models. Clinical trials revealed promising pharmacokinetics with extended half-lives, modest virological suppression when used as monotherapy, and synergistic potential when combined with antiretroviral agents. Passive immunization studies indicated protective efficacy for prevention, though viral escape through envelope sequence variation remains problematic. Antibody engineering approaches including Fc modification and bispecific formats enhance potency and breadth. However, challenges persist regarding high production costs, need for intravenous or subcutaneous administration, resistance development, and limited accessibility in resource constrained settings. Broadly neutralizing antibodies constituted a valuable addition to HIV prevention and treatment strategies, though substantial barriers to widespread implementation require resolution through continued technological innovation and health system adaptations.

Keywords: Broadly neutralizing antibodies, Human immunodeficiency virus, Passive immunization, Viral envelope glycoproteins, Antiretroviral strategies.

 

CITE AS: Nyakairu Doreen G. (2026). Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies for HIV Prevention and Treatment: Advances and Challenges. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY 11(1):93-98. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBCP/26/102.9398